National Taiwan Day

Young woman in traditional Taiwanese clothing, holding a plate of steaming dumplings, surrounded by a bustling night market scene.. — National taiwan day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Taiwan Day! Get ready for an exciting journey full of culture, delicious food, and fascinating history. We're here to uncover the internet and national history behind this special day, so let's dive right in!

When is Taiwan Day?

It's national taiwan day on the 10th October.

The Internet History of National Taiwan Day

On October 10, 2020, National Taiwan Day sent shockwaves across the internet with a whopping 682 mentions! Talk about making a splash in the digital world. People all around the globe took to social media to share their love for Taiwan and celebrate its rich heritage.

But what is the story behind this extraordinary day? National Taiwan Day is an annual celebration that honors the establishment of the Republic of China on the island of Taiwan. It's a day filled with festivities, parades, cultural performances, and, of course, mouthwatering Taiwanese delicacies.

This special day provides an opportunity for people to reflect on Taiwan's vibrant history and appreciate the incredible accomplishments of its people. From its breathtaking natural landscapes to its bustling metropolises, Taiwan offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Whether you're enjoying bubble tea with loved ones, cheering on your favorite Taiwanese sports teams, or simply taking a moment to immerse yourself in the island's beauty, National Taiwan Day is a time to celebrate all things Taiwanese.

So mark your calendar and get ready to join the virtual party on October 10. Let's show Taiwan some love and appreciation!

History behind the term 'Taiwan'

1644

The Arrival of the Dutch

In the year 1644, the term 'Taiwan' first emerges as the Dutch set foot on the island. They named it 'Tayouan,' which was a combination of the terms 'tayou' meaning 'east' and 'wann' meaning 'bay.' It referred to the island's location on the eastern bay of the Taiwan Strait.

1544

European discovery

In 1544, Portuguese sailors were the first Europeans to set foot on what is now known as Taiwan. They named the island 'Ilha Formosa,' which means 'beautiful island' due to its stunning natural scenery. At the time, the island was inhabited by various indigenous tribes.

1661

The Zheng Family Takes Control

During the year 1661, the island came under the control of the Zheng family, led by Koxinga. They maintained the name 'Taiwan,' but pronounced it as 'Taizhong,' reflecting their Chinese origins.

1624

Dutch colonial period

In 1624, the Dutch established a colony known as 'Fort Zeelandia' in present-day Tainan. They referred to the island as 'Tayouan' or 'Taiwan,' which is believed to have originated from the word 'Taihoa' used by the local inhabitants to describe the coastal mountains.

1683

Qing Dynasty Incorporation

In 1683, the Qing Dynasty of China succeeded in incorporating Taiwan as a part of its empire. They referred to the island as 'Taiwan' in their official records, adopting the name used by the previous rulers.

1662

Koxinga's reign

In 1662, Zheng Chenggong, also known as Koxinga, expelled the Dutch and established the Kingdom of Tungning, ruling over Taiwan and parts of the Chinese coast. During his reign, the term 'Taiwan' began to be widely used to refer to the entire island, rather than just specific regions.

1895

Japanese rule

Following the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was ceded to Japan in 1895. The Japanese administration referred to the island as 'Taiwan,' adopting the Dutch name. The term gained further prominence during this period, as the Japanese implemented various reforms and modernization efforts on the island.

1885

Taipei Becomes the Capital

In the year 1885, during the Qing Dynasty, Taiwan underwent administrative reforms, and the capital was moved to Taipei. This shift solidified Taipei's position as the center of political and economic activities on the island.

1895

Japanese Rule Begins

Following the First Sino-Japanese War, the Treaty of Shimonoseki was signed in 1895, transferring the sovereignty of Taiwan from the Qing Dynasty to Japan. The Japanese administration continued using the name 'Taiwan.'

1945

Post-World War II

After Japan's surrender in World War II, Taiwan was handed over to the Republic of China (ROC). The term 'Taiwan' continued to be used to refer to the island, although it was also known as 'Formosa' in many international contexts. The ROC government relocated to Taiwan and remains the ruling authority to this day.

1945

Post-World War II: Republic of China

At the end of World War II in 1945, Taiwan was handed over from Japanese control to the Republic of China (ROC). The ROC maintained the name 'Taiwan' as it governed the island.

1949

Separation from mainland China

In 1949, during the Chinese Civil War, the Communist Party of China established the People's Republic of China (PRC) on the mainland, while the ROC government retreated to Taiwan. This led to a distinct political separation, with the term 'Taiwan' increasingly associated with the island and its separate political identity.

1949

Communist Revolution and Changing Landscape

With the Chinese Communist Party's rise to power and the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, the situation of Taiwan changed significantly. The ROC government retained control over Taiwan, while the PRC claimed sovereignty over the entire land. The coexistence of two separate entities and ongoing political complexities gave the term 'Taiwan' added significance.

1971

United Nations recognition

In 1971, the United Nations officially recognized the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of China, resulting in the expulsion of the ROC. The ROC lost its seat in the UN, further solidifying Taiwan's separate international status.

Present

Contemporary use

Today, 'Taiwan' is the widely accepted and internationally recognized name for the island. The term has become synonymous with the unique cultural, economic, and political identity of Taiwan and its people. However, the political status of Taiwan remains a subject of ongoing debate and tension between the PRC and the ROC.

1971

Taiwan's International Representation

In 1971, the United Nations recognized the People's Republic of China (PRC) as the legitimate representative of China, thus expelling the Republic of China (ROC) government from the organization. Consequently, Taiwan lost its seat at the UN and most countries switched diplomatic recognition to the PRC.

1996

Direct Presidential Elections

In 1996, Taiwan held its first direct presidential elections, marking a significant milestone in its democratization process. The elections allowed the Taiwanese people to directly choose their leader and further solidified Taiwan's status as a separate political entity.

2008

Adoption of 'Taiwan' as Official Name

In 2008, Taiwan officially changed the English name of its government from 'Republic of China' to 'Taiwan.' This shift aimed to distinguish itself from the political implications associated with the term 'China' and emphasize its unique identity.

Did you know?

Did you know? Taiwan is famous for its night markets, where you can find a mouthwatering array of street food delicacies. From stinky tofu to oyster omelets, these bustling markets are a gastronomic wonderland!